Indie fighter Skullgirls is bringing the battle to iOS and Android later this year, with a game that blends fighting game action with RPG mechanics to create something . . . well, just look at it.

The new game, developed by Hidden Variable Studios using the PC and console fighting game’s assets and engine, sounds like many different ideas coming together into a sort of fighting game/collectible RPG stew. According to the official announcement, timed to coincide with the game’s reveal at Skullgirls developer Lab Zero Games’ Anime Expo panel, the game includes dozens of characters and special moves to collect and upgrade, with RPG progression, deck building elements and a Fight Assist feature that allows players to take on a more tactical role in combat.

Put that all together, and it sounds sort of like a fighting game take on the collectible character RPGs that have been big on mobile platforms over the past couple of years. The game, which we’re just calling Skullgirls mobile because that’s all we’ve been given, will tell stories that revolve around the main game’s fiction, with the “first season” acting as a prequel.

Advertisement

While the screenshots all show fighting action that wouldn’t be too out of place in the console/PC game, the trailer goes into a little more detail on the other bits.

Developer Hidden Variable Studios entered the mobile gaming spotlight with 2011's Bag It!, and has since released other games and worked on various versions of the hit game Threes. The studio is aiming for a game that will please the hardcore while remaining approachable to new fans. If all else fails, aim for everybody.

Advertisement

“I’ve always been a huge fan of Skullgirls, so the opportunity to bring this amazing cast of characters and unique fighting mechanics to mobile has been a labor of love for all of us over the past two years,” said Charley Price, co-founder and creative director at Hidden Variable Studios via official announcement. “I think hardcore fans of the console game will really love the way we’ve captured the essence of fighting gameplay in a simpler, mobile-friendly package, whereas more casual fans will be able to enjoy an awesome accessible experience that explores new stories set in the Skullgirls universe.”

It should be interesting to see how the game pans out. It certainly has that Skullgirls look and feel. Fans interesting in getting an early look at Skullgirls’ mobile spinoff can sign up for the upcoming beta test at the game’s official website.